Chapter 3: Theoretical Perspectives
Manifest function
An action that is intended to help certain parts of society.
Latent function
An unintended consequence that helps society.
Latent dysfunction
Any unintended consequence that harms society.
Conflict theory
Claims that society is composed of groups that are competing against each other
Structure of society
how the parts of society fit together to make a whole.
Conflict theory
society is composed of groups competing with each other for rare and scarce resources. They feel that although there may be surface cooperation, beneath the surface there is always a power struggle.
Symbolic Interactionism
studying how people use symbols to develop their views of the world & to communicate with each other.
Functions
the beneficial consequences of people's actions. Help to keep society running smoothly & together.
Proletariats
the rest od society that was poor and worked for the bourgeoisie
Micro analysis
the social interaction that people have when they are in the presence of other people (Symbolic interactionists).
Karl Marx
founder of conflict theory
Femininst
People who think men ans women should have equal rights
8 Methods of Sociological Research
1.) Select a topic 2.) Define the problem/phenomenon 3.) Review the literature that is available 4.) Formulate a hypothesis (If... then...) 5.) Choose a research method 6.) Collecting data and information 7.) Analyze your results & formulate your theory 8.) Share your results
Bourgeoisie
Small group of capitalists that ruled everything
3 major theories that sociologists use
Symbolic Interactionism, Functional analysis, Conflict theory
Theory
a general statement that's given at the conclusion of research to explain what has either been proven or learned.
Hero
a person who is admired for their caring, compassion, versatility, outstanding achievements, and/or for their exceptional qualities.
Role model
a person whose positive mannerisms serve as an example to be followed.
Macro analysis
examines large scale patterns of society (Functionalists & Conflict Theorists).
Function of society
focuses on what each part does and how it contributes to society.
Hypothesis
an educated guess about what you think you will find based on prior knowledge or research.
Idol
an image or representation of a god that is looked upon as an object of worship.
Symbol
an object, act, or sound, that represents something else through associations, images, or resemblance.
Functional analysis
central idea that society is a whole unit made up of interrelated parts that work together (aka functionalism). A part of sociology. Herbert Spenser viewed society as a living organism with organs that had to work together in harmony.
Dysfunctions
consequences that harm society.
Robert Merton
used the term functions to refer to the beneficial consequences of people's actions
